PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park
4.5
PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park
By Pilli Pipa Dhow Safari
About
Select this full-day cruise aboard a traditional dhow sailboat and enjoy two snorkel stops on the beautiful coral reef at Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park. Be on the lookout for dolphins and turtles as you cruise through the marine park. The day includes a light breakfast, a Swahili-style seafood lunch, and free-flowing drinks on scenic Wasini Island.
from per adult
$120.00
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 3-99, max of 40 per group
Duration: 8–9 hours
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
English
Highlights
- Snorkel in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park to see pristine reefs
- Cultural experience: travel in a traditional sailing dhow
- Enjoy snacks, drinks, lunch, and open-bar
- Included park fees and snorkeling gear mean no extra costs
- Pick up and drop off from your Diani Beach, Msambweni or Tiwi hotel
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- Fully owned and licenced boat and captain
- National Park fees
- Morning tea and snacks
- Cold soft drinks and water on board throughout the tor
- Professional marine guides and snorkelling/ diving instructors
- All snorkelling equipment hire including: Snorkelling masks, prescription snorkelling masks,snorkels, fins,life jackets and buoyancy rings. All our equipment is imported from the Netherlands and regularly serviced and replaced.
- Buffet style seafood lunch (vegetarian or chicken option available)
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Bottled water
- Soda/Pop
- Entry/Admission - Diani Beach
What's not included- Your own beach towel
- Sunscreen
- Water friendly shoes
- Hat and sunglasses
- Camera
- Swim suit
- DIVING at extra cost. Pay on the day.
- Meet a driver at your hotel for transfer to Shimoni fishing village, where you board a dhow sailboat for the trip to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park. Enjoy Kenyan coffee, tea, and morning snacks on the boat, watching for dolphins, turtles, whale sharks, and humpback whales during the crossing. Snorkeling equipment is provided, as well as life jackets and in-the-water help from snorkeling guides, if desired. Two snorkeling stops give you time to take in the remarkable wildlife that thrives on the coral reefs here, with large shoals of fish, moray eels, stingrays, and more. Following your time in the water, head to Wasini Island for a seafood lunch of freshly caught crab and fish, served with alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. After lunch, relax by the beach or in the garden before returning to shore where a driver meets you for transfer to your hotel.
- Departure details
- Traveler pickup is offered.
- Hotel pickups commence between apporximately 7:00am and 7:25am from Diani Beach. Depart from Shimoni jetty at approximately 8:45am
- Hotel pickup is offered. View the hotel list on our checkout page to see if yours is included among the pickup points.
Return details- Returns to original departure point
- Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 58380P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Evidence of dive certification is required from all divers wishing to participate in a certified dive (fun dives available for non-certified divers). Dives incur additional charges.
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Not normally possible to pick up from Mombasa or North Coast hotels but please ask first to see if we can make special arrangements.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- How much is PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park?
- PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park price starts from $120.00. Discover and book PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park on Tripadvisor
- What is the PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park cancellation policy?
- PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Discover and book PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park on Tripadvisor
- Which company provides PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park?
- PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park is hosted by Pilli Pipa Dhow Safari. Read reviews, discover additonal experiences or contact Pilli Pipa Dhow Safari on Tripadvisor. Discover and book PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park on Tripadvisor
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 58380P1
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Similar experiences
Itinerary
- You'll get picked upSee departure details
- 1Pilli Pipa Dhow SafariStop: 6 hours - Admission includedYou will be collected from your South Coast hotel or villa and driven by minivan to Shimoni where you board our dhow to go to the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park. This excursion is not suitable for collection from North Coast Mombasa hotels as the travelling distance is long. Many guests still do it but there can be long delays at the Likoni ferry. Snorkel at two different dive sites with the chance of seeing dolphins on the way and in the park. Dolphin sighting not guaranteed but highly probable. We see dolphins regularly and there is plenty of marine life to see. Then proceed to Wasini Island for an excellent lunch of fish and crab. Alternatives of chicken or vegetarian can be ordered in advance.Read more
- You'll return to the starting point
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About the operator
- X5451YSlindaw00UnforgettableI went on a Pilli Pipa tour as a kid 20 years ago and now again and it remains one of the best experiences - wonderful crew, dolphins following the majestic dhow, beautiful snorkeling experience (with guides that accompany you and explain and spot special fishes), delicious crab lunch - an unforgettable day and a must do if staying in diani.
- Tony M00Swam with dolphins!!!We were recommended this boat trip, and booked without a second thought. Our first impressions, as the rain came down on us, were not good, but as the day progressed, and the sun came out, it just got better... and better. Two snorkelling sessions and then lunch, and on the second snorkelling swim we were surrounded by a pod of about 12-15 dolphins. They were certainly not scared off by the scuba divers below us and swam around happily and even when more boats cam to take in the spectacle they seemed to perform even more - leaping out of the water and putting on a show. Great lunch of local foods on Wasini island and then a spontaneous show by monkeys in a tree next door to the restaurant.
- JazzMaverick00Snorkelling sublimeHad a fantastic day out with Pilli Pipa Dhow. Everything went smoothly. Booking easy. Staff came to hotel to take payment by card. Picked up at hotel on day of trip. Very good driver Mohammed gave us a smooth and safe drive to Shimoni where we got on a small boat which transferred us to the Dhow. Such a friendly and helpful and good natured crew. Coffee and biscuits during the hour spent getting to the coral reef. Sadly no dolphins as it was windy and choppy. The captain steered us well through the choppy water. On arrival at the reef we were kitted out in snorkelling gear and fins. There were 10 of us on the trip and the crew accompanied us and showed us the best bits of the reef and were very safety conscious throughout. The fish were plentiful and colourful. Some large shoals and large fish. We followed some turtles closely watching them rise up to the surface for air. Back on the dhow for a further short journey to another good spot. Plenty of time snorkelling. Then journeyed to Wasini Island where we were welcomed by beautifully dressed Swahili ladies who sang and then served a seafood buffet. Vegetarian options were available. It was all very smooth and efficient. Food was great and plentiful and after lunch we relaxed in comfortable huts and enjoyed the cactus gardens and baobab trees and the pretty shoreline. After a good hour we then transferred back to the dhow. Done expertly and safely as it was still choppy. Then a pleasant drive back to hotel. All in all a fantastic day out. I spoke to others who had taken cheaper trips but in unshaded boats with questionable safety. Can’t recommend these folk enough. Great organisation and staff.
- RMburu00VacationThis was overpriced compared to other Dhows. There was no music on the dhow. Other companies play Swahili music to entertain the guests on the 2+ hours The captain and the diving crew were great at their jobs.
- Antony_Ngatia00SnorkelingGot up early inorder to get our ride to the dhow. We opted for the luxury package as both my wife and I love dhows. There were 2 other couples with us, which was alright as the dhow was not crowded. The ride got bumpy at times, but as we have worked on water before this was not an issue. We got to see the dolphins feeding which was amazing. We had lunch at the Pilli Pipa restaurant thereafter. the service and hospitality we experienced was nothing short of amazing and the meal was delicious. We thoroughly enjoyed the entire day. Thank you and God bless 🙏
- 323danielv00Excellent!!!We did the Wazimi Island visit, a real highlights while staying at Diani beach. The company has been excellent, every detail of the trip, car pickup, driving, boat, snorkelling, restaurant, beverage, snacks, explanations all top! The real top was the restaurant with so many local delicious specialities. It wasn’t cheap but 100%!worthwhile the money.
- markuss15800Wonderful boat trip to the reefWe had a lovely experience on the trip with fabulous staff onboard. The crystal blue sea and the rich waterlife made our trip something to remember. Saw many dolphins and sea turtles, and even some smaller sharks during the snorkeling. Worth the trip from Diani.
- bwamaitha00Fun day outThe team was well organized and helpful. They kept time and were very accommodating to my 2 young kids. The restaurant served a delicious meal that even the kids enjoyed. They were worth it.
- dipshahxxx00Great excursion from DianiThe dolphin safari is something special, if u go to Diani you cannot miss it. A full day on the dhow with snacks drinks and professional and available staff to assist you in the water and outside We recommend it!
- 46vinceo00AMAZING SNORKELING EXPERIENCEThe experience was amazing! Out of this world. If you are in Diani, hala at them! Snorkeling at its best!
- shazzlagh00Superb in every wayExcellent experience. The best of my experiences snorkeling in Kenya and abroad. The crew was super professional, most having worked at the company for over 15 years (says a lot for the company). The lunch at their restaurant was also outstanding! Lastly, not due to the company but the variety and quality of what we saw in the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park was also way better than what I have seen in Watamu. Even saw dolphins! Good memories from this day.
- RMannfield00Best dolphin safari ever!Thanks to all the Pilli Pipa team for a wonderful day of fun and nature. Welldone guys! Hope the be able to come back soon! All the best
- WinterTravellerUK00Great, except for the wavesHad a great time though both my mum and I were sick on the boat because of the tides. The food was OK but could be better! Hospitality was great. The instructors were attentive to us. Would recommend and I think it's worth the price (I know cheaper operators, as a resident, but I went with them because of the guaranteed professionalism).
- nah110800Decent snorkeling tripI did this as my second snorkeling experience. The idea of snorkeling over a protected coral reef was very alluring. The communication with my hotel was good as they had to change the pick up time. The driver arrived on time and the day ran very smoothly. Breakfast was promised which turned out to be some biscuits and cola. They did have water but it looked a bit grim social stayed away. We went to 2 sites, the first was lovely, lots of living coral and fish - was even lucky enough to swim with a turtle. The captain of the boat spotted dolphins on our journey which was special. The second site was a disappointment. Almost all of the coral was dead and I would have enjoyed more time at the first site. The meal was in a restaurant on an island, the food was nice and I enjoyed the visit. I feel the trip is overpriced at around £100. I think it should be around £60. Overall it was a decent trip and the coral and marine life is beautiful
- catarinaw75200So nice, friendly and the best food in KenyaWe are so happy that we found this trip. We had the luck to see both dolphins and turtles. The staff is very helpful and friendly. The boat is fantastic. The food was the best we have had in Kenya. So don’t hesitate to book, it is worth it!
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
178 reviews
Excellent
136
Very good
28
Average
6
Poor
5
Terrible
3
Muya
1 contribution
Nov 2020 • Couples
Experience was good, from transport pick up with lots of professionalism from Jacob the driver. The boat was of high standards and the crew was amazing giving us all the attention to details, not forgetting Jacob with his paparazzi marketing as he cracked our ribs. The snorkeling crew were good and very patient even to some of us who had never gotten to a mass of water before. The sea food at the restaurant was on point, the restaurant staffs were welcoming filled with endless smiles that you wouldn't dare leave without tipping them. Our journey back to the hotel was a non forgettable one as Jacob was very informative all the way and very professional. I would for sure refer my friends and relatives to Pilipipa Dhow as it met my expectations. That was just a well organized excursion, you deserve a 7star to be precise.
Regards,
Muya.
Regards,
Muya.
Written December 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Valerie P
Hi Muya, we are very lucky to have Jacob on our team, he really gives us a boost with his positive attitude. In fact we are lucky to have an excellent well trained crew and also the ladies as well. All of them have been with us for years. Thank you for your good review.
Written December 2, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DavidTopping
Kuching, Malaysia24 contributions
Nov 2021 • Solo
Selina fitted me in to a trip to the pink reef at the last minute. I had not dived with Pillipipa before. Their diving operation is very professional and the explanation of all the marine life we should be looking for was detailed by Selina on our way out. I didn’t stay at their accommodation at Shimoni but it is very nice, with restaurant swimming pool and tented bedrooms all at reasonable rates. I’ll be back soon. There’s plenty of dive sites in the two parks.
Written December 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nikunj Shah
Nairobi, Kenya19 contributions
Nov 2021
PilliPipa, the popular water safari company in Diani- know their stuff! From the time you make an inquiry to the time you get off the boat at the end of the day, they are always ready to assist! We had a few questions and all were answered patiently prior to booking. We are vegetarians and wanted a specific meal; and they assured us that they would look into it. Since our Hotel was at the furthest point for the morning pickup, which was 7am. Since our hotel really let us down for an early breakfast option, Pilli Pipa were flexible and nice to send another transfer vehicle to pick us at 7.30am. The boats were quite large and spacious and the staff all friendly and ensuring you are ok (both in and out of the water). Was impressed that they made sure they swam close to (with a life ring) those who may have needed any assistance during snorkelling. Unfortunately we did not spot any dolphins, but that's the way it is. The seas were calm and clear.
We were pleasantly surprised at our special request (non fried) vegetarian lunch!! Enough options to definitely fill you up and very very tasty. Loved the way they presented the usual lunch and informed everyone how it was prepared (which spices etc). Big thank you to their Manager Yatin and the rest of the staff for being attentive and very welcoming.
If there was anything that needed to be changed, in our opinion, would be the plastic mugs that are on board for tea/coffee (hot beverage). Would have preferred anything else (eg steel/enamel) but plastic.
Definitely recommend them and we shall visit again since we missed the Dolphins.
We were pleasantly surprised at our special request (non fried) vegetarian lunch!! Enough options to definitely fill you up and very very tasty. Loved the way they presented the usual lunch and informed everyone how it was prepared (which spices etc). Big thank you to their Manager Yatin and the rest of the staff for being attentive and very welcoming.
If there was anything that needed to be changed, in our opinion, would be the plastic mugs that are on board for tea/coffee (hot beverage). Would have preferred anything else (eg steel/enamel) but plastic.
Definitely recommend them and we shall visit again since we missed the Dolphins.
Written November 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Valerie P
Thanks for the great comments Nikunj and we are so glad you enjoyed the day. About the plastic mugs. We always had melamine mugs on our dhows for the last 30 years, they are re-usable and long lasting . However, lately we could only find a few on sale in our area and were forced to take lighter plastic ones. We have tried stainless steel in the past but unfortunately, our crew did not wipe them dry quickly enough and after a while they went rusty in places. The water we use for washing up comes from a well so it is slightly salty but not that bad. There is bit of movement on the dhow so we do not have glass or ceramic on the dhow to avoid any mishaps. We do not use any disposable bottles, cups or plates as that is not our style and they often get blown overboard. Thankfully, KWS maintains the rule that no disposable water bottles are allowed on any of the dhows. In the past we would find large amounts of empty small plastic bottles tipped into the sea, but we never used them. I am thinking about trying the stainless steel again, maybe give more instructions on how to thoroughly dry them.
Written December 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lucy A
Reading, UK3 contributions
Feb 2020
Wow, wow, wow, we went on our tour last week and it was one of the best experiences of our lives! From start to finish it was extremely well organised but not overbearing. We were so impressed with every member of staff from the boat staff to the waiting staff to the managers. The experience is so authentic, we usually don’t like ‘touristy’ tours but this felt so individual and not stuffy at all. We got picked up from our guest house on time and taken to the boat. The snorkelling was absolutely amazing, we were lucky to swim with dolphins, we all were so happy and it felt so natural. The guides really care about the marine life and it was very respectful towards the dolphins and they weren’t chased or hassled. The coral reef is gorgeous. For slightly nervous swimmers they were extremely helpful.
The lunch, omg the lunch! We all said we had never tasted crab as delicious as what they served, it was dressed with ginger and butter. You could tell the waiting staff and the staff at the restaurant truly care about the food and they could not do more.
Please, please book this wonderful tour, you won’t be disappointed.
The lunch, omg the lunch! We all said we had never tasted crab as delicious as what they served, it was dressed with ginger and butter. You could tell the waiting staff and the staff at the restaurant truly care about the food and they could not do more.
Please, please book this wonderful tour, you won’t be disappointed.
Written March 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Julie W
1 contribution
Jan 2023
The crew were excellent on the dhow. I hadn't snorkelled before and am not a confident swimmer and I was able to hold onto a life ring to enable me to enjoy the experience. Lots of coral and amazingly colourful fish! Refreshments were provided on the dhow. Lunch was disappointing, a 'seafood lunch' consisted of two crab claws and fish balls with vegetables, served by unfriendly staff. The food was cold and the only drinks available were fizzy soft drinks and water. The trip was more expensive than others and we would have expected a beer or glass of wine to accompany the meal.
Written February 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Valerie P
Thanks for the review, H3263H. In our brochure and from our office, whether verbally, by email or message, we never describe our lunch as a seafood lunch. We always say crab and fish for lunch. Therefore, it sounds as if you booked through somebody else who was keen to make a sale. There were fish goujons and roulades of fish with tamarind sauce and coconut sauce. For the crab you could have asked for more or takenmore, but our ladies should have offered more actually. We have not served alcohol since Covid, when our government put a ban on the sale of alcohol for some time. The ban was lifted but we decided not to start with alcohol again and that is why we put our price down by US$10. Everybody is cheaper than us, that is one of our disadvantages, because we pay for all insurances, licences, taxes, staff health insurance, staff taining etc etc. There was tea, coffee and there should have been citronella tea if the fresh citronella was available. I am sorry that you found our staff unfriendly, most people say the opposite. I am sorry you were not given our brochure before you booked (so that you see what is on offer) otherwise probably you could have chosen something cheaper. On the positive side, your first experience of snorkelling with qualified crew was the best you would have had in the Kisite Marine Park and we are happy about that.
Written February 11, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
kerryoutram
Nairobi, Kenya29 contributions
Aug 2020 • Friends
Most incredible trip, had some members of the party diving and some snorkeling. Some experienced and some first timers.
Both activities were phenomenal, the reef at kisite is one of the best I have ever seen, the corals are stunning and the fish life simply extraordinary.
We saw sting ray, turtles, dolphins and massive clams as well as the teeming reef life.
The crew on the dhow are fantastic, their attention to detail is exemplary and they are brilliant at ensuring everyone is well hydrated and snacks are on hand for the extra energy.
Lunch at Wasini Island is a culinary master piece, the blend of traditional costal Swahili flavours is awesome and everything is cooked to perfection. The seaweed is divine and the polenta with coconut kachumbari just totally heavenly.
Lunch is then topped off with a mug of homemade citronella tea.
The island is run by ladies from the Wasini community and the reef restoration and community projects are just incredible.
Simply cannot recommend it more, if you are in Diani this is an absolute 100% must must do.
Both activities were phenomenal, the reef at kisite is one of the best I have ever seen, the corals are stunning and the fish life simply extraordinary.
We saw sting ray, turtles, dolphins and massive clams as well as the teeming reef life.
The crew on the dhow are fantastic, their attention to detail is exemplary and they are brilliant at ensuring everyone is well hydrated and snacks are on hand for the extra energy.
Lunch at Wasini Island is a culinary master piece, the blend of traditional costal Swahili flavours is awesome and everything is cooked to perfection. The seaweed is divine and the polenta with coconut kachumbari just totally heavenly.
Lunch is then topped off with a mug of homemade citronella tea.
The island is run by ladies from the Wasini community and the reef restoration and community projects are just incredible.
Simply cannot recommend it more, if you are in Diani this is an absolute 100% must must do.
Written August 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Valerie P
We are so proud that you enjoyed the full benefit of our excursion. Thank you so much for your wonderful comments. Our crew and ladies certainly do their best.
Written August 21, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Oscar and Phiona
Kigali Province, Rwanda1 contribution
Oct 2020 • Couples
An amazing whole day immersive experience. Transport provided to and from the hotel, and very punctually too. Sailed in the Almasi dhow to Kisite and took part in snorkeling. Underwater diving also an option. Spent a bit of time on a sand strip for photos and relaxation before a second snorkeling experience. Exquisite seafood served in the Pili restaurant on the land side infused with quite a bit of the Swahili culture in the presentation and setting of it. Then a dhow ride back to the jetty to end the day. What struck us the most was the timely nature and professionalism of all their personnel. They’re experienced and the punctuality and organization makes sure you maximize on the fun and activity. Definitely doing this again in the near future.
Written October 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Valerie P
Whow!, thanks Emma, so glad you enjoyed the day. Another happy person that makes us happy to serve you all.
Written October 10, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Annette N
1 contribution
Sep 2020 • Couples
I called Pilli Pipa literally 40 minutes before the begining of the journey and they found a way to accomodate us. Right from the beginning everything was great. The driver of the van was on time and gave us a lot of information about the places on the way to the park. The staff on the boat were also really professional and interactive. The dive itself was really great and the Marine Park is BEAUTIFUL. So much diversity down there. The lunch was really nice. All round,a great experience. 5 stars. I strongly reccomend.
Written September 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Valerie P
Thank you so much Navigat.. for the excellent recommendation. Our staff are very happy to be back at work after such a long time. So glad that you had a good time.
Written September 12, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Julie M
Paris14 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
The tour is nice but it not for young children and in retrospect I should have done more research in advance. We went as a family with our 2 kids (4 and 8yo). The tour asked for my children age before booking, charged me and didn’t mention a thing about the tour not being suited for children. The snorkeling is in deep sea, with strong current. You need to be a good swimmer. As such we had to leave our youngest on the boat the whole time and my husband and I were only able to do 1 out of the 2 dive so that one of us could stay on board with our youngest. They only have a couple of floaters and it was challenging (albeit dangerous) to snorkel with our 8 year old. I was quite frustrated that the tour charged us for our youngest and failed to mention anything. With a bit more preparation, it could have been a much nicer experience. There were other kids aboard, and one of them burst into tears due to fear after the snorkeling experience. Parents were all stressed out, as I was… simple fixes and more honesty would greatly improve this tour.
Written August 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Valerie P
Our tour is perfectly safe for chldren, we have life vests for everybody on board including children. I do not agree with your damaging allegation that we are dishonest. If you look at any map you can see that the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park is in the sea. We never said that we are not in the sea. We are not in a lake or river where the water is calm. Kisite is managed by Kenya Wildlife Services who monitor dhow trips like ours. They charge US$ 17 per adult and US$ 13 per child per day and have a small rescue boat on site. We have many children who enjoy the day. 4 years is not too young to learn to swim and our crew are all qualified and certified PADI or NAUI Open Water scuba divers who are used to assisting children and adults who can't swim well. I am sorry you did not ask a crew member to look after the 4 year old whilst you dived. Our own grandchildren have been going on the boat regularly since less than a year old. For information KWS charge US$ 13 for a non resident child of 3 years old. Maybe you could complain to them, it may help them to lower this charge. It's always better to complain on the day, we did have the owners there in Shimoni and a manager on Wasini Island at lunch time.
Written September 19, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
SEN
Nairobi, Kenya6 contributions
Pilli pipa have the best guides for the ocean experience. I don't swim but they encouraged me to snorkel and as scared as I was, I enjoyed every bit of it through their guidance. The full day experince was well worth time & every penny. Apart from missing the dolphins, they don't show up some days, weather patterns! The team is well organized, professional & undoubtedly experienced. The ladies with the lunch are quite a vibe, delivering finger licking delicacies just as expected. Thank you Pilli Pipa!
Written December 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Valerie P
Hi Neraphia! This is the sort of learning experience we hope for, so glad that you have gone away with a new skill.. I am really sorry that somebody so enthusiastic missed the dolphins, what a shame. We have been seeing them on a regular basis, almost daily since August, but every once in a while they decide to stay away.
Written December 12, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Anne H
Caterham, UK51 contributions
Hello do you pick up from Voyager beach hotel and the Baobab Hotel?
sbrunell22
Erdenheim, Pennsylvania1 contribution
What is the cost to rent the snorkeling equipment and how do we let the company know we need to rent their equipment.
Mihaela F
7 contributions
They have on board equipment and the price is included in the tour cost.
I will be there at the end of October. Is that an appropriate time of year to book this experience?
Sumeet Garara
Nairobi, Kenya80 contributions
Yea
Jenny J
12 contributions
hi
im staying at baobab beach resort is this included in the pick up list ?
domenicoderosa
Rome, Italy12 contributions
Hi, we are four people. How much is the price in Total?
Sightsee110802
Warsaw, Poland
If i stay already in Shimoni, can I go snorkeling directly from there? Can I find a deal to go the Natl marine park from therer?. Is it possible to go just snorkeling in the park whitout the lunch and island stop?
LetsGoWildSafaris
Diani Beach, Kenya6 contributions
Yes that is possible
Sightsee110802
Warsaw, Poland
If i stay already in Shimoni, can I go snorkeling directly from there? Can I find a deal to go the Natl marine park from therer?. Is it possible to go just snorkeling in the park whitout the lunch and island stop?
Hola, quisiera saber si esta excursión también se hace con guías en español.
Khwezi Tsotetsi
Watamu, Kenya
Good day, I will be coming in May between 16-21. Do you not operate in May?
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PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park provided by Pilli Pipa Dhow Safari
Product Overview: PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park
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